Photo credit: AFP

In a recent update, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) shared that three People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessels were observed trailing the joint maritime drills involving the Philippines, Australia, Canada, and the U.S. This exercise, a display of international cooperation, was kept under close scrutiny by the Chinese ships.

On a reassuring note, the AFP clarified that there were no signs of Chinese military activity near Scarborough or Panatag Shoal based on the latest ground reports. The Chinese military had recently conducted an exercise in the northern South China Sea from July 31 to August 2, 2024. However, this activity took place outside the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), meaning it did not encroach upon the areas of significant concern for the Philippines.

The presence of PLA vessels trailing the drills underscores the ongoing geopolitical tension in the region, but the absence of direct military action in disputed areas is a positive sign for maritime stability.